The opening ceremony of SEA Games 31 will last 120 minutes, beginning with a flag hoisting ceremony. 

11 outstanding Vietnamese athletes will carry the torch and light the Games cauldron. The cauldron lighting will be especially spectacular thanks to the use of light effects. Sprinter and hurdler Quach Thi Lan has the honor of lighting the cauldron. 

It will be followed by opening remarks from the Vietnamese high-ranking leader and an oath made by athletes and referees. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, each sport delegation is sending 31 members to join the parade. The number 31 represents the 31st games. 

A highlight of the ceremony will be a three-chapter show drawing more than 1,000 artists, armed forces, and students. The first chapter, themed “Friendly Vietnam” will feature the unique cultural identity of Vietnam as well as its hospitality and friendliness the country offers people from all countries in the region and the world.

Meanwhile, the second chapter will highlight a “Strong Southeast Asia”, with the strength of a connected ASEAN community that will bring the bloc a strong position in the world.

The third and last chapter, “Shining Southeast Asia,” reflects the strength from the solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and other ASEAN member countries for a strong community and rising role in the world arena.

The event will use state-of-the-art technologies, including mapping, augmented reality - AR, and extended reality – EX, among others.

Tran Ly Ly, Acting Director of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism’s Department of Performing Arts and General Director of the opening ceremony, said: “The opening ceremony will deliver a message about a beautiful and wise Vietnam who merges itself in the flow of Southeast Asia. The technology we use is mapping technology which requires a large number of projectors. The high technology together with participation of artists with dynamic stages, 3D light and sound systems, and AR technology will create beautiful images. “

Notably, the symbols of 40 sports will be displayed using Dong Ho folk painting art. Graphic images featuring Vietnamese icons like bamboo, lotus, traditional long dress, and conical hats will also be showcased. 

The show will round off with a performance of 11 boats representing 11 Southeast Asian countries and a fireworks display. 

SEA Games 31 is taking place until May 23 in Hanoi and 11 adjacent provinces and cities with the theme “For a stronger Southeast Asia”.